There was a global outpouring of support yesterday, including from Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, to the people of Venezuela following twin earthquakes that left a trail of devastation, with thousands feared dead or missing.On Wednesday, the first earthquake struck just after 6 p.m. with a magnitude of 7.2 and was followed 39 seconds later by a 7.5-magnitude earthquake, according to the US Geological Survey.The stronger quake was the largest to hit the country since 1900.As of yesterday evening, the death toll had reached almost 200, with more than 35,000 people reported mis­sing in the aftermath of the disaster, which toppled buil­dings and injured thousands.Trinidad and Tobago was among the first countries to extend its “firm support” through a release from the Ministry of Foreign and Ca­ricom Affairs on Wednesday night, noting with concern reports of significant seismic activity throughout Venezuela, particularly in Caracas.The release noted that the Trinidad and Tobago Government remains mindful of the vulnerability of the region to natural disasters and shares the anxiety of its neighbours during this challenging period of assessment and recovery.“The people of Trinidad and Tobago cherishes the fraternal bond with the people of Venezuela and in the spirit of the enduring friendship and close bilateral ties between our two nations, the Government of Trinidad and Tobago stands prepared to provide any requested support and assistance to the Venezuelan authorities, where possible,” it stated.The ministry said it would continue to monitor the situation closely through its diplomatic mission in Caracas, which was not significantly impacted by the event.“Our thoughts remain with those affected by this event, and we offer our stead­fast support for the safety and resilience of the Venezuelan people,” the release stated.The Prime Minister, in a post yesterday morning, shared the release and also expressed her personal concern and sympathy.She stated, “The Government and people of Trinidad and Tobago, and I, extend our heartfelt sympathy to the government and people of Venezuela following the recent earthquake, which has caused loss of life and destruction. Our thoughts, prayers and solidarity are with all those affected.“We stand ready to assist in whatever humanitarian way we can during this difficult time. We wish the people of Venezuela safety, strength and a swift recovery as they navigate the aftermath of this natural disaster.”Venezuela is Trinidad and Tobago’s closest neighbour, separated by just seven miles (11 kilometres) of water across the Gulf of Paria.The South American nation has been plunged into political and humanitarian turmoil for years, causing millions to flee, including thousands who have come to Trinidad and Tobago.According to a New York Times report, Venezuela’s interim President, Delcy Rodriguez, announced a state of emergency and called on doctors and nurses to report to work.The report stated that in nearby Caracas, Venezuela’s capital, structures shook and collapsed, prompting residents to flee into the streets.United States President Donald Trump, hours after Wednesday’s earthquakes, indicated that the United States would be providing support.Early yesterday morning, Rodriguez thanked Trump for his offer and noted that US officials “have been in constant contact” with Venez­uelan authorities.At a news conference, Rodriguez said her country “will be receiving” rescuers from multiple countries, including El Salvador, Mexico and Qatar.She added that the governments of Brazil and China, along with several Caribbean nations, had also offered humanitarian assistance.